Dear 7th Grade Families,
We had a much cooler week this week, and kids are getting settled into normal routines. I am trying to monitor my communications to you, because I of course want you to be informed but also not overwhelmed by material. This note is almost entirely about the upcoming overnight trip with some important information and action items.
Our overnight trip occurs on Thursday 9/28- Friday 9/29. The purpose of the trip is team building, grade bonding, connection, new connections and new adventures and challenges. On this trip the grade is able to establish norms for communication, collaboration and cooperation that are foundational for community and academic group work throughout the year. It also is a time to experience nature and some activities that are new and exciting. Overall, we hope it is a fun and rewarding experience.
Our trip is to the YMCA Camp in Dingmans Ferry, PA called Camp Speers. It is a gorgeous facility with a lake, trails, and all sorts of outdoor activities in northeastern Pennsylvania. While there, we plan on many activities including hikes, ropes course, archery, canoeing, campfires, team building games, etc…I will be in touch later next week or the week of 9/24 with more specifics. A few key details for now:
1. Here is a Camp Speers waiver to sign and have your child return to his/her advisor. We will also hand this out to students next week on paper. Please be sure it is returned to the advisor by Friday 9/22.
2. Here is a Camp Speers Packing List to look over with your child. We will also hand this out to students next week on paper.
3. We have all food allergies and sensitivities on file and will plan accordingly with the camp. In addition, we are asking our kids to fill out a short survey regarding food preference and dietary restrictions, so we will be sure there are adequate options for all our students. The food is camp food though, so we should not expect quite the same high quality we get everyday here on campus from Chef Alex!
4. Drop off is as normal on Thursday September 28th, and Pickup is as normal at 3:25pm on Friday, September 29th. There are no after school activities on Thursday or Friday for Middle School.
Key dates for next week:
Monday 9/18: Picture day (confirmed). Here is the form.
Thursday 9/21: Back To School Night @ 6:30pm
Thanks! Have a great weekend.
– James Aitken
